Building on the already-impressive Porsche 911 platform, the new 160-horsepower “S,” introduced for 1967, featured a higher-compression (9.8:1) engine with larger valves, forged light-alloy pistons on forged and nitrided connecting rods, a revised exhaust system, and a pair of 40-millimeter Weber triple-throat downdraft carburetors. The new 911 S came standard with new 4.5-by-15-inch Fuchs lightweight forged alloy wheels, Koni shock absorbers, ventilated brake discs, a larger-diameter front anti-roll bar, and a new rear anti-roll bar. Porsche added some additional distinctive trim to the body, while the engineers also managed to trim its weight. The earliest of 911 S examples, like the one offered here, were configured with a Weber IDA “S” carburetor assembly—Weber had not yet finished development of the IDS system, and so Porsche distinctively modified their jetting and marked remaining IDA assemblies with an “S” stamp to designate their use.
Capable of 140 mph, this new 911 S would become the benchmark for precision-built, well-equipped, and moderately priced sports cars. Due to more stringent emissions regulations, Porsche was hesitant to send S models to the United States for 1968, the last year of the short-wheelbase chassis. As such, examples that did make it to the North American market are both rare and desired by marque enthusiasts.
Delivered new to West Newbury, Massachusetts, this Porsche 911 S left the factory finished in Tangerine paint over a black leatherette interior with a Webasto heater, fog lights, and a map light as optional equipment. Documents on file indicate the car benefitted from long term ownership spanning a 40-year period which began in 1978. Under this stewardship, the Porsche was masterfully restored by CarParcUSA of Costa Mesa, California in 2017. A collection of photographs on file document the process of stripping the car down to bare metal, removing every last nut and bolt for refinishing. As part of this process, the drivetrain was torn down and rebuilt with an immense attention to detail. No stone was left unturned in an effort to bring this 911 to concours quality. An owner’s manual, Licorice Pizza Records coupon from 1978, a Pioneer radio manual, invoices, and a Kardex copy will accompany the Porsche upon sale.
Still finished in factory-delivered colors and retaining its numbers-matching engine and gearbox, this 911 S now appears in concours condition and possesses the appealing trait of belonging to a rare batch of cars delivered in 1968. An excellent prospect for touring and the show field alike, the example on offer belongs to a truly collectible cohort of one of the motoring world’s most beloved sports cars.
